Rising fuel costs, indoor air quality and climate change are all contributing factors in raising awareness of the true cost of energy. There is a great need for energy-efficient building environmental system design, construction and maintenance.

In the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program students will:

• Develop the ability to size, install and maintain building environmental systems for the residential and light commercial sector. • Gain solid skills and knowledge in design, operation and maintenance of environmental systems, in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R). • Develop practical skills through hands-on experience, working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances in the labs. • Gain competency with industry-ready skills in soldering, wiring and electric control circuitry and trouble-shooting for HVAC and gas installations. • Use computer-aided design software to assess building heating and cooling requirements, select appropriate equipment and develop HVAC system drawings and specifications for the residential market.

The program follows industry-standard design practices for environmentally responsible and energy-efficient residential, commercial and industrial systems, as established by the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI), the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the Canada Green Building Council.